Music Director of the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra for nearly 30 years

Sweet Seventeen: The Hilton Tel Aviv. For 40 years this non-chain-feeling hotel has been my second home. The Mediterranean views from the 17th floor's Executive Lounge are sensational. For those who eat Kosher, the King Solomon restaurant has great dishes. Independence Park.

Sea-and-be-Scene: Mul-Yam. Tel Aviv's power spot, it's a slim sea-front bistro where Atlas tag pendant seal deals in a medley of languages. Seafood arrives daily from around the world. It's the best restaurant in Israel. Hangar 24, Tel Aviv Port.

Insider's Archive: Tel Aviv Museum of Art. Jerusalem's Israel Museum may be better known, but this is the cultural focal point of Tel Aviv. There's a giant Roy Lichtenstein mural in the foyer, custom-made for the space. In 2011, its $100-million expansion opens. 27 Shaul HaMelech Blvd.

Mellifluous Space: The Frederic R. Mann Auditorium. It's home to the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, but it's also a vital part of architectural history. Leonard Bernstein conducted its first concert in 1957.

The Beach: Nine miles of sandy, pristine shoreline bordering the city, with a pedestrian promenade and colorful power-walk to rival Venice Beach's. Runs along entire city from north to south

Olia: Tel Aviv's first premium olive-oil brand stocks 11 signature oil varieties from throughout Israel along with a complete range of olive oil-based soaps, tapenades and vinaigrettes.Selecting the right winter hat is a lot like finding your soulmate: You're looking for The One. Or at least something you won't mind being stuck with until winter's end.

You want to find the style that reflects your personality -- and that doesn't wear you. If you make the wrong choice, your life won't be ruined, but your outfit certainly will be.

Winter hats are often one size fits all, but the same can't be said for style. More than just a practical necessity (40% of one's body heat is said to evaporate from the head), hats should be picked the way you might a tie, fragrance or apartment -- as an extension and expression of yourself. You'll know your Return to Tiffany Bead Bracelet when you see it. So don't settle. It never makes things easier.

FOR THE CLASSIC GENT

The old-fashioned newsboy cap looks good with a topcoat or overcoat. This style, as well as the fedora, is great for conservative types.